The truth is interview no-shows are no fun. It's disrespectful, offensive, and leaves a bad taste in the mouth. When you cannot fulfill a commitment - be it a meeting, an interview, or even a deadline, the very least you could do is reach out to the other party and inform them.
Although there are times wherein it is inevitable, what exactly are must-dos in these situations? I have some pointers below.
1. Avoiding no-shows - Don't do it. I mean, don't be that candidate who doesn't turn up for the scheduled interview. I know what you'll say; what if something important came up, something that you couldn't have prevented or anticipated? It's true, these situations do happen, and I sympathize, but if that is the case, pick up the phone and make that 1-minute phone call with your recruiter. I am 100% certain you already know you would miss a scheduled interview or meeting at least an hour before the scheduled time. So, do the right thing and let all parties involved know that you can't make it. Give the earliest notice you can before the scheduled time, not five minutes before, not during, and most certainly, not after.
2. Be honest and straightforward with your recruiter - If by any chance that you will be making that call to your recruiter, be honest. Don't make any lame excuses; not telling your recruiter what happened will only worsen the situation. Regardless of whether you are working with a headhunter or a direct TA, you should keep a healthy and open line of communication with your recruiter. We live in a connected world - 6 degrees of separation. One unfortunate situation could lead to a detrimental make-or-break decision in the near future.
3. Attend the interview - even when circumstances have changed. Perhaps you had to forgo this opportunity, you have a family member who will need long-term care, situations that make going for this job not possible. If you cannot do point 2, then attend the interview and tell the interviewer and your recruiter this change. You are in this situation because you either applied for the post or a recruiter reached out to you; either way, you were given a schedule because you agreed to pursue the opportunity. It would be disrespectful if you simply ghost the interviewer. And, sooner or later, it will backfire and leave you feeling sorry you took things for granted. Be professional.
Next time you are in this situation, be guided accordingly. A little consideration and a dash of professionalism go a long way.